Technology

First 10 things to do if you got a new PC

Published

2 years ago

January 2, 2024

First 10 things to do if you got a new PC

If you’re reading this, you might have gotten a new PC for the holidays or you’re considering buying one in the new year. Thaddeus from Ellenton, Florida, reached out to us with this question after purchasing a new PC.

“I just bought a new PC laptop for the first time in 8 years (how times change!). I want to set this one up correctly and in the most secure way possible from the very start. I mean from the first time I boot it up. QUESTION: Is there a checklist of suggestions that I can follow to [set up] a new computer correctly & securely?” – Thaddeus, Ellenton, FL

Yes, Thaddeus, we have some great suggestions for you. Here’s how to set up your new PC, fresh out of the box. And for those who have a new Mac, check out these five essential steps to set up your Mac.

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1) Getting started with Windows

Man typing on PC (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

When you first open your new PC, Windows will ask you to pick some basic settings. First, it’ll ask you to select a language. Then, it’ll ask to connect to your Wi-Fi. Select whatever network you use and input your password. You can then click on “connect automatically” so Windows won’t ask you for a password every time you want to connect to the internet.

After connecting to your Wi-Fi, Windows will ask you to set up your language, time and calendar settings. It then asks you to create a login. Windows might ask you to create an online Windows account, but that’s optional. While it does sync up your new PC to other PCs you might own, you can also create a local account.

2) Updating to latest version of Windows

First thing’s first, you should make sure you have the latest version of Windows. It doesn’t matter if you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11 — you should be using the most up-to-date version. Luckily, Windows allows you to easily update your new computer.

Once you connect your PC to the internet, Windows will automatically search for updates. If you want to update your computer once it has been set up, here’s how:

Windows 10:

Click Start and select Settings
Select Update & Security and then click Windows Update
Click Check for updates and if one is available, click on Download and install

Windows 11:

Click Start and select Settings
Select Windows Update
Windows should automatically start Checking for updates, if not, select Check for updates
Click Download and install

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3) Install a new browser

Windows comes preinstalled with Microsoft Edge. The browser is perfectly serviceable, however, it may not be your cup of tea, and you might want to go with an alternative. You might prefer Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Opera GX or Brave instead. Each has its upsides and downsides.

Google Chrome is more ubiquitous and features a huge library of extensions for you to download and use. It also connects to your Google profile, letting you have a more seamless experience across multiple devices. Firefox is more catered toward privacy and also features a pretty big selection of extensions. And if you’re a fan of gaming or have gamers in your family, Opera GX has features that focus on your CPU, RAM and network connectivity. Or you may want to go with Brave, a browser that blocks ads and trackers by default and also offers built-in firewall and VPN services. Brave is fast, secure, and privacy-focused.

To download any of those browsers, just head to their respective websites and click on the version that works best for your PC.

MORE: TOP BROWSER EXTENSIONS TO MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER

4) Setting up your computer security settings

Windows 10 and 11 both come preinstalled with Windows Security (also known as Windows Defender). It’s turned on by default unless you have a third-party antivirus preinstalled. You can access it pretty easily, here’s how:

Click Start and select Settings
Select Windows Security
Use the options on screen and make sure everything has a green check

Windows security screen (Microsoft) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Windows Defender, integrated as a complimentary antivirus software in Windows 10 and 11, offers capabilities to detect and remove a variety of malware, along with firewall and device protection features. However, its scope is limited. It does not safeguard against phishing or spam, and its functionality is confined to the individual Windows 10 or 11 system where it’s installed, primarily supporting other Microsoft products. Unfortunately, it lacks compatibility with popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Safari, leaving third-party applications and programs susceptible to security and privacy breaches. Consequently, Windows Defender may not be sufficient for comprehensive security needs, and exploring reliable third-party alternatives could provide more robust and extensive protection.

No matter what, the best way to protect yourself from having your data breached is to have antivirus protection installed on all your devices. Having good antivirus software actively running on your devices will alert you of any malware in your system, warn you against clicking on any malicious links in phishing emails and ultimately protect you from being hacked. Get my picks for the best 2023 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices.

5) Backing up your PC

Backing up your PC gives you some security in case something goes wrong. You can use it to restore your Windows back to normal. And a backup feature is built right into Windows.

Windows 11:

Connect the external drive for your backup to your computer
Open File Explorer
You should see the external drive in the left-side panel
Copy the content you want to back up by
Paste the copied files or folders into the external drive

Windows 10:

Connect the external drive for your backup to your computer
On the main desktop, go to the ‘Windows’ icon to open the menu
Click Settings
Scroll down the ‘Windows Setting’ page, and click Update & Security
Click Backup
Select Add a drive
Choose the external drive or network location you want to back up the files

6) Transferring your files

While transferring files to a new PC can seem daunting, it’s actually quite simple. All you need to do is backup your files onto a cloud storage service like Dropbox, One Drive or Google Chrome. Then log into your service on your new PC and download/restore those files onto your new computer. For an offline option, you could upload your files to a thumb drive or external hard drive. You’d then plug them into your new PC and download them.

7) Cleaning up bloatware

Many PCs bought off the shelf will have bloatware, which is software that is pre-installed by the manufacturer or retailer, often without the user’s consent or knowledge. It’s that unneeded Candy Crush clone or antivirus software trial that you don’t really need taking up space on your computer. Luckily, it’s pretty easy to get rid of. Here’s how:

Windows 10: uninstalling apps:

Select Start, then select Settings
Click on Apps and then select Apps & features
Choose the bloatware you want to Uninstall

Uninstall programs from the Control Panel

Use the search box to find the Control Panel
Click on Programs and then select Programs and Features
Right-click on the program you want to get rid of and select either Uninstall or Uninstall/Change
Follow the directions on the screen

Windows 11: uninstalling apps:

Click Start and select Settings
Select Apps
Click on Installed Apps and uninstall any bloatware

You’ll also want to have a quality performance optimization program to do a deep clean up all that redundant junk from your device so that it can perform the way it’s supposed to and serve your needs. Here are my top picks for the best performance optimization programs in the industry. Before you clean out your computer with these programs, it’s always a good idea to back up your devices.

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8) Register your PC, software and hardware

Image of laptop PC (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

You should register your device with its manufacturer. It’s an additional record that you’ve bought their product in case you ever need help with it. It also gives the manufacturer a way to contact you in case there’s a recall.

You can register your device online, but that could put you on a mailing list and subject you to spam. One way to combat that is using an alias email. An alias email address is an additional email address that can be used to receive emails in the same mailbox as the primary email address. It acts as a forwarding address, directing emails to the primary email address.

In addition to creating throwaway email accounts for online sign-ups and other circumstances where you would not want to disclose your primary email address, alias email addresses are helpful for handling and organizing incoming communications.

Sometimes, it’s best to create various email aliases so that you don’t have to worry about getting tons of spam mail and having your email eventually stolen in a data breach. An alias email address is a great way for you to stop receiving constant spam mail by simply deleting the email alias address. See my review of best secure and private email services here.

MORE: CONTROL SPAM – HOW TO CREATE A QUICK ALIAS EMAIL ADDRESS

9) Set up a password manager

One of the most critical steps in securing your new PC is to use a password manager. Password managers help you generate strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts, store them securely, and automatically fill them in when you need to log in. This helps protect your accounts from hacking attempts and simplifies your online life. After installing your chosen password manager, make sure to set it up and start using it to store and manage your passwords.

By using a password manager, you’ll enhance the security of your online accounts and ensure that you’re not using weak or duplicate passwords, which can be a significant vulnerability. With this additional step, your new PC laptop will be even more secure.

10) What to do with your old PC

The first thing you should do with your old PC is wipe it clean. You don’t want to risk compromising your own data. If you don’t, you could be leaving your information exposed.

Windows 10:

Click Start and select Settings
Select Update & Security and then click Recovery
Click on Get Started and select Remove Everything
Click on Local reinstall and click on Change Settings, then choose Wipe the drive
Select Confirm and then Next and then click Reset

Windows 11:

Click Start and select Settings
Select Update & Security and then click Recovery
Click on Reset PC and select Remove everything
Click on Local reinstall or Cloud download
Select Change Settings in Additional settings
Select Clean data
Select Confirm and then Next and then click Reset

Instead of adding your old PC to your pile of unused tech, consider selling or recycling them. Some services will pay you even if your devices are not working. Here are two services that you can use.

1) Amazon’s Trade-In Program

Amazon’s Trade-In Program is a quick and easy way for you to earn something from your old and unused electronics. Most older electronics decrease in value as time goes on, so it’s not likely that you’ll be able to earn a ton of money by selling them. Sure, you could always give your old item to a friend or family member if it’s still in good shape. However, if they are going to want to use something newer as well, then this is the perfect way for you to recycle your items and earn money back at the same time. Follow these steps on how this program works.

2) Decluttr

Decluttr is one of the easiest and fastest ways to sell used tech, including cell phones, unwanted MacBooks, tablets, and game consoles, but also CDs, DVDs, games and books, too. Decluttr pays 30% more on average compared to Apple or Samsung buyback programs for smartphones. You can see what they would pay for your old tech online before committing to selling it here on Decluttr.

Click here for ways to sell, donate or recycle your phone and all of your old devices.

Kurt’s key takeaways

Setting up a PC can seem like a daunting task. But this handy checklist shows how easy it can be. Just follow these 10 steps and you’ll be on your way to surfing the web, streaming videos and more!

What do you do first when you buy a PC? What are your biggest issues or challenges? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

Gemini is making it faster for distressed users to reach mental health resources

Published

3 minutes ago

April 7, 2026

Press Room

Gemini is making it faster for distressed users to reach mental health resources

Google says it has updated Gemini to better direct users to get mental health resources during moments of crisis. The change comes as the tech giant faces a wrongful death lawsuit alleging its chatbot “coached” a man to die by suicide, the latest in a string of lawsuits alleging tangible harm from AI products.

When a conversation indicates a user is in a potential crisis related to suicide or self-harm, Gemini already launches a “Help is available” module that directs users to mental health crisis resources, like a suicide hotline or crisis text line. Google says the update — really more of a redesign — will streamline this into a “one-touch” interface that will make it easier for users to get help quickly.

The help module also contains more empathetic responses designed “to encourage people to seek help,” Google says. Once activated, “the option to reach out for professional help will remain clearly available” for the remainder of the conversation.

Google says it engaged with clinical experts for the redesign and is committed to supporting users in crisis. It also announced $30 million in funding globally over the next three years “to help global hotlines.”

Like other leading chatbot providers, Google stressed that Gemini “is not a substitute for professional clinical care, therapy, or crisis support,” but acknowledged many people are using it for health information, including during moments of crisis.

The update comes amid broader scrutiny over how adequate the industry’s safeguards actually are. Reports and investigations, including our probe into the provision of crisis resources, frequently flag cases where chatbots fail vulnerable users, by helping them hide eating disorders or plan shootings. Google often fares better than many rivals in these tests, but is not perfect. Other AI companies, including OpenAI and Anthropic, have also taken steps to improve their detection and support of vulnerable users.

Technology

AI needs more power: Offices could be the answer

Published

33 minutes ago

April 7, 2026

Press Room

AI needs more power: Offices could be the answer

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

If your office cranks up the AC on a hot afternoon, you are part of a much bigger story. Energy demand is climbing fast. Data centers and AI systems are using more electricity than ever. At the same time, extreme weather is putting added stress on the grid. That pressure has utilities looking for relief in an unexpected place. Not a new plant. Not a massive battery installation. Instead, they are turning to buildings that already exist. A Seattle startup called Edo is betting your office can help keep the lights on.

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Seattle startup Edo is helping utilities tap office buildings as virtual power plants, shifting energy use when demand spikes and the grid faces added stress. (alacatr/Getty Images)

What is a virtual power plant?

A virtual power plant, often called a VPP, connects many buildings and devices so they can act like one coordinated energy resource. Instead of generating new electricity, these systems adjust when and how energy gets used.

Here is the idea in plain terms. When demand spikes, a building can temporarily reduce non-essential power use. That might mean cooling a space earlier in the day or delaying equipment that does not need to run right away. Across thousands of buildings, those small shifts add up quickly.

How Edo turns buildings into grid assets

Edo focuses on commercial buildings, which make up a large share of U.S. electricity use. The company installs technology that connects to existing building systems like HVAC, batteries, solar and EV charging. It links these systems through standard communication protocols and manages them from a central platform. That allows everything to work together instead of operating in silos. Edo then maps out where energy is being used and when. From there, building operators get a clearer picture of what can be adjusted without disrupting daily operations.

For example:

Pre-cooling or pre-heating before peak pricing kicks in
Charging electric vehicles when electricity is cheaper
Shifting flexible tasks to off-peak hours
Sending stored solar energy back to the grid

These changes happen with coordination, not guesswork. Utilities can then tap into that flexibility when demand spikes.

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As AI and data centers drive electricity demand higher, utilities are looking to commercial buildings for fast, flexible grid support instead of waiting on new infrastructure. (David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Why utilities are paying attention now

This approach solves a real problem. When demand surges, utilities usually face tough choices. They can build new power plants, install large-scale batteries or reduce power through blackouts. All of those options come with high costs or major disruptions. Virtual power plants offer another path. They reduce strain on the grid without building new infrastructure. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, VPPs could provide up to 160 gigawatts of flexible capacity by 2030 if adoption ramps up.

The shift from niche idea to mainstream solution

Virtual power plants have been around for years, mostly in residential settings. Companies like Tesla, Sunrun and EnergyHub already connect home batteries and smart devices.

At the same time, firms like Voltus and CPower Energy focus on large industrial users. Commercial buildings, however, have been largely overlooked. That is where Edo sees opportunity.

Why this matters as AI demand grows

AI is not just a software story. It is an energy story. Massive data centers require huge amounts of electricity. As more companies adopt AI tools, demand will continue to rise.

That makes flexible energy strategies more important than ever. Instead of racing to build new plants, utilities are rethinking how existing power gets used. Virtual power plants are becoming part of that solution.

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Edo connects HVAC, batteries, solar and EV charging systems, so office buildings can respond in real time when utilities need relief on the grid. (AJ Watt/Getty Images)

Kurt’s key takeaways

Office buildings are already being used to support the grid. Companies like Edo are working with thousands of properties to adjust energy use in real time when demand spikes. What makes this shift important is how quickly it can scale. Instead of waiting years for new infrastructure, utilities can tap into systems that already exist. As AI demand grows and energy pressure builds, that flexibility could become one of the most practical tools available.

As AI drives up electricity demand, who should take the lead in keeping the grid stable: utilities or the companies using the most power? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

Wisconsin governor says ‘no’ to age checks for porn

Published

12 hours ago

April 6, 2026

Press Room

Wisconsin governor says ‘no’ to age checks for porn

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers vetoed a bill that would’ve required residents to verify their age before accessing porn sites, as reported earlier by 404 Media. In a letter to the members of the assembly last week, Evers writes that the bill “imposes an intrusive burden on adults who are trying to access constitutionally protected materials.”

The bill (AB 105) would’ve required sites with more than one-third of their total content deemed harmful to minors to impose a “reasonable” form of age verification, such as asking users to show their government-issued ID. More than two dozen states have already passed similar age check requirements for access to adult content, including Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Missouri, Texas, and Virginia. As a result, Pornhub has blocked its site in these locations.

Last month, the Wisconsin American Civil Liberties Union testified that AB-105 “raises significant concerns around privacy, surveillance, and the First Amendment,” and it seems like Governor Evers agreed. “I am vetoing this bill in its entirety because I object to this bill’s intrusion into the personal privacy of Wisconsin residents,” Evers writes, adding that he’s “concerned about data security and the potential for misuse of personally identifiable information” obtained as a result of the age verification process.

An early version of Wisconsin’s age verification bill also included a ban on virtual private networks (VPN), which people have been using to circumvent online age checks. Lawmakers dropped this provision in February, though VPNs are becoming a target for regulators around the globe.

Despite vetoing this bill, Evers is leaving the door open for other kinds of age verification solutions, such as “device-based” methods that would verify the age of users on their phone or computer.